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Chinese Herbs

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Codonopsis - This superb Chi tonic is used in much the same manner as Ginseng, and is considered to be an excellent substitute for Ginseng, in any formulation calling for basic Ginseng. It is favored over Ginseng when Ginseng's energy may b e too strong or too warm. It is said to restore energy, balance the metabolism and stimulate the production of blood. It is also traditionally used to clear the lungs of mucous and as a tonic of special value to nursing mothers. It is said to help the skin become elastic, smooth and radiant, and is thus used in many tonic formulations designed to increased both beauty and vitality.

Cordyceps - This rare and strange herb is considered to be a moderately Yang primal essence (Ching) tonic of the highest stature, in the same league as other major super tonic herbs such as Deer Antler, Reishi and Ginseng. It is a mushroom that grows on the head of a particular kind of caterpillar in mountainous regions of Mongolia and Tibet. It has enormous renown as a super tonic, and is said to build sexual and physical power, mental energy, the immune system and is universally believed in the Orient to prolong life.

Cornus - This sour fruit plays an important role in many Essence tonics. It is said to be "astringent," thereby locking energy into the system and preventing the energy from "leaking" out. In its own right it is a powerful Yin essence tonic.

Cuscuta - Cuscuta is commonly used in long term tonic programs. It is a gentle tonic for the Kidney Yin and Yang, and also helps nourish Chi. It helps the Kidney to consolidate the Chi. It is widely used to improve vision, nourish the sperm and marrow, strengthen bones and sinews and to strengthen sexual functions.

Cynomorium - Cynomorium is considered to be a superb tonic to the primal Yang essence and is thus used in many tonics for both men and women. It is widely believed in the Orient to be a superb longevity herb and an excellent sexual tonic and stimulant. It is said to strengthen the bones.

Deer Antler - Deer antler is widely believed in the Orient to strengthen all aspects of a person's life, and is considered to be an ultimate primal essence (Ching) tonic. It is said to be a warm Yang tonic, although it is also known to contain Yin essence and is a major blood tonic.

Extracts of Deer Antler have been found to strengthen the central nervous system and the heart. Deer Antler is believed to strengthen the mind and to calm, yet enliven, the Spirit (Shen). Deer Antler contains many natural minerals and other nutrients. Deer Antler is universally believed throughout the Orient to invigorate sexual energy. Modern research indicates that Deer Antler stimulates the production of blood by nourishing the marrow. The soft antler of the deer is removed from the deer when it has grown just two or three spikes and is still covered by velvet. The deer grows new antlers. The tip of the antler is the most potent part because it contains the most active substances. It takes thirty deer antlers to make one ounce of "tips."

Dendrobium - This variety of Chinese orchid is an excellent and delicious Yin tonic and longevity herb. It is said to quickly and effectively replace spent "adaptive energy." It is widely used in the Orient by those who engage in a lot of sexual activity to replace the spent energy and to replace fluids; and thus it is commonly called "honeymooners tea." When combined with licorice root, it is also called "healer's tea," because it s said to provide healing energy which can be transmitted to others and replace spent healing energy. Thus body workers, other hands-on healers, and all those who give of themselves from their soul, benefit by consuming Dendrobium. It has been widely used both by Taoist hermits and by the Chinese elite.

Dioscorea - This root of a wild yam is an important Chi tonic and Yin essence tonic used to regulate hormonal balance, blood sugar levels and the functions of the kidneys. It has a regulating action on the small and large intestines.

Dragon Bone - Dragon Bone is the fossil of either the Mastodon or the Woolly Rhinoceros, both of which roamed China around 15,000 years ago. Dragon Bone is a Shen "stabilizer" used traditionally to calm the emotions and to relax the nerves.

Dried Ginger - Dried Ginger is tonic to the stomach and expels gas. It warms the body and aids digestion.